By Saidi Lufune | Iringa
Tanzania’s Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Ashatu Kijaji, has said the government will continue working closely with a range of stakeholders to improve infrastructure in national parks and key tourist attractions, as part of efforts to boost both domestic and international tourism.
Dr Kijaji made the remarks during an official tour to inspect government-funded development projects in Ruaha National Park, one of the country’s flagship conservation areas.
She said that enhanced infrastructure is critical to achieving Tanzania’s target of attracting eight million tourists, noting that the ministry will strengthen partnerships with the private sector and other stakeholders to market and promote the country’s diverse tourism products.
According to the minister, more than TZS 58 billion has been invested in the construction and upgrading of airstrips, visitor accommodation facilities, and residential buildings for staff within the park.
Dr Kijaji also directed the management of Ruaha National Park to work closely with leaders of surrounding villages to identify areas that could be incorporated into joint investment arrangements, particularly for the development of modern tourism infrastructure.
She added that such collaboration would ensure infrastructure improvements align with the significant upgrades implemented under the REGROW Project.
Speaking at the same event, Deputy Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Hamad Hassan Chande, commended the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) for effectively overseeing the implementation of the projects.
He said the initiatives would strengthen relations between conservation authorities and local communities, while also creating employment opportunities and increasing incomes for residents living near the park.
Representing local communities, Idodi Ward Councillor Julius Mguta thanked the government for continuing infrastructure development initiated under the REGROW Project, saying it has significantly contributed to improving livelihoods in the area.
He noted that the improved facilities have increased daily income opportunities for residents and helped discourage illegal activities, including poaching
